Akzo Nobel, Europe's leading paint manufacturer, is exploring options to either partner with a larger company or sell its Indian operations. Akzo Nobel's aim is to navigate the consolidation in the South Asian paint market. The company currently holds a 5% market share in India with its Dulux brand and seeks a collaborative approach for future growth.

Akzo Nobel India reported a 14% increase in net profit to Rs 108.7 crore in the fourth quarter, driven by higher demand from the automotive sector. Despite muted retail demand due to higher rainfall and price hikes, the company's revenue from operations rose 3% to Rs 9.82 billion.

Jubilant Foodworks Ltd., the operator of Domino's Pizza and Dunkin' in India, reported a lower net profit of Rs 66.53 crore in the second quarter, compared to Rs 97.2 crore in the same period last year. Despite the profit dip, revenue rose to Rs 1,954.72 crore from Rs 1,368.63 crore, fueled by expansion and growth in the Indian market.

Cigarette maker Godfrey Phillips India Ltd on Monday reported a 23 per cent rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 248.31 crore in the second quarter ended September 30, 2024, fuelled by higher sales.

Britannia Industries' revenue from operations increased by 5.29 per cent to Rs 4,667.57 crore in Q2 FY25, up from Rs 4,432.88 crore during the second quarter of the financial year 2023-24. On the company's quarterly performance, Varun Berry, vice chairman and managing director, said, “A ~8% volume growth with a sequential increase in revenue and operating profits are satisfactory results in the face of severe commodity inflation leading to a tepid consumer demand scenario in most FMCG categories."

Indian consumers are increasingly choosing healthier snack options, driving the segment's rapid growth. Emerging brands offering smaller packs and health-focused snacks are experiencing significant success, particularly in metros and lower town classes. This health-conscious trend extends to durables like air fryers and fitness wearables, reflecting a nationwide shift towards healthier lifestyles.

Environmental group Rainforest Action Network (RAN) alleges that palm oil derived from illegally cleared Indonesian wildlife reserves may have infiltrated the supply chains of major brands like Nestle and Procter & Gamble. RAN's investigation, supported by satellite imagery, points to the deforestation of Rawa Singkil Wildlife Reserve for palm oil plantations, potentially jeopardizing endangered species.

Godrej Industries is set to acquire the food additives and emulsifier business of Savannah Surfactants Limited for Rs 76 crore. The deal will see Godrej Industries expand its product offerings to the Food & Beverages segment. Savannah Surfactants Ltd has a manufacturing capacity of 5,200 tonnes per annum of finished products.

India's retail inflation rose to 6.21 percent in October. This is a significant increase from September's 5.49 percent. Food prices are the main reason for this surge. This is the first time since August that inflation has gone beyond the Reserve Bank of India's 6 percent limit. The rise in onion prices is a major concern.

Pernod Ricard India Pvt Ltd (PRI) has reported an overall 6.9 per cent increase in its revenue from operations for FY24, and its profit rose 20.9 per cent to Rs 1,620.58 crore, according to the Registrar of Companies data accessed by business intelligence platform Tofler.

Coca-Cola India's consolidated profit plummeted by 41.82% to Rs 420.29 crore in FY24, despite a 4.24% increase in revenue, reaching Rs 4,713.38 crore. The company's advertising and sales promotion expenses surged by 35.47% to Rs 1,520.21 crore, while royalties paid to its US parent company also rose.

Xiaomi India President Muralikrishnan B has resigned to pursue a doctorate, marking the end of his tenure during a period of recovery for the leading smartphone company. Muralikrishnan, who joined in 2018, will transition into a six-month gardening leave. His departure follows strategic executive appointments aimed at boosting offline sales and premium market presence.

US President Donald Trump's second term may benefit India's electronics industry. The US plans to impose tariffs on Chinese electronics, encouraging companies to seek alternative manufacturing hubs. India, with its growing manufacturing sector, stands to gain. Experts believe this shift could lead to increased electronics exports from India to the US. However, concerns remain about India's capacity to handle the potential surge in production.

Samsung India Electronics' revenue grew by a mere 4% in FY24, reaching Rs 102,626 crore, marking its slowest growth in eight years. This slowdown, largely attributed to a stagnant smartphone market and heightened competition, is believed to be behind recent layoffs and cost-cutting measures.

The gaming console uses Wi-Fi 7, a wireless standard that uses the 6GHz band for connecting to the internet. However, the band itself is embroiled under controversy with telecom operators pushing for it to be reserved for mobile internet services.

Apple established a new subsidiary in India, Apple Operations India, marking its first direct presence in the country. This subsidiary will focus on research, design, testing, and providing support to third-party manufacturers. This move signifies Apple's commitment to expanding its operational footprint in India beyond assembly and sales.

Apple could double its iPhone production in India to over $30 billion annually if the US imposes tariffs on Chinese imports. This shift could create 200,000 jobs and increase India's share in iPhone production to over 26%. However, the move depends on US policy and India's ability to address cost and policy challenges.

Sony India, experiencing substantial growth in its gaming sector due to the PlayStation 5's success, is now eyeing India as a key market. Despite anticipating moderated growth this fiscal year, the company remains committed to expanding its gaming presence, including software and peripherals. Sony India last week filed its annual returns to report over 50.1 per cent growth from its 'other business' segment at Rs 1,363.54 crore, which houses its gaming and B2B business.

Apple India's dividend payout to its Irish holding company more than doubled to ₹3,302 crore in FY24, exceeding its net profit for the first time. This comes as iPhone sales surged in the country, boosting Apple India's revenue by 36%. While analysts acknowledge the impressive revenue, they also point to stagnant operating margins and increased inventory as potential challenges.

DAEWOO India has brought on C.M. Singh as its new Joint Managing Director. Singh brings over 30 years of experience to the role, having previously held leadership positions at LG, Videocon, TCL India, and Sukam. DAEWOO aims to leverage Singh's expertise to expand its presence in the consumer durables sector and reach new markets across India.

Bharat Puri, MD of Pidilite Industries, discusses the company's revenue growth driven by volume growth and reduction in prices due to normalized raw material prices. Puri expects double-digit volume growth going forward and highlights the company's focus on investing in rural markets, which have shown no decline or softness. Pidilite Industries has added 30,000 new retail points to its rural network and sees rural markets as a driver of growth. Puri also mentions the improvement in international business and sustainable EBITDA margins at the higher range of 20-24%.

India's Pidilite Industries , which makes Fevicol adhesives and Dr. Fixit waterproofing products, posted a 6.2% jump in fourth-quarter profit on Tuesday, driven by lower input costs.

​​Santosh Raveshia, Managing Director, DOMS Industries Limited said, "As we conclude FY24, we are pleased to report on a period marked by significant achievements and strategic initiatives that have reinforced our strong position in the stationery and art materials market. We continued seeing positive business traction resulting in robust sales growth coupled with further elevation of margins, reflecting upon the strength of the ‘DOMS’ Brand to connect with its consumers."

DOMS Industries Limited reported strong Q1 FY25 results, with a notable 17.3% increase in revenue and 49.5% growth in profit after tax compared to Q1 FY24. The firm saw improved EBITDA and margin performance. The company also announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Unilcan Healthcare to expand its market.

India's paper market is experiencing rapid growth, with packaging paper and paperboard consumption rising at 8.2% in 2023-24. The market, driven by demand from FMCG, textiles, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and healthcare sectors, benefits from the ban on single-use plastics. Overall paper demand in India grows at 6-7% annually.

DOMS Industries Limited witnessed a 42.8% surge in consolidated profit after tax, reaching Rs 53.7 crore in Q2 FY25. This growth was fueled by a 19.7% rise in revenue, driven by strong sales in writing instruments, adhesives, and kits. The acquisition of a 51.8% stake in Uniclan Healthcare further bolstered the company's performance.

India's home textile industry is set to witness 6-8 per cent growth this fiscal, riding on resilient demand from the US and expansion in the domestic market, according to a report on Tuesday.

Indian travelers are increasingly splurging on luxury goods while abroad, with spending in this category skyrocketing by 250% in recent years. Travel companies and luxury brands are responding by incorporating premium shopping experiences into their itineraries and offering exclusive perks to attract Indian shoppers.

Page Industries, the company that holds the license for Jockey and Speedo in India, saw its profit increase by 30% in the second quarter. The company's profit reached 1.95 billion rupees. This growth was driven by higher sales of premium athleisure wear. Despite a general slowdown in consumer spending, demand for these products remained strong.

Safari Industries India reported a 25.40% YoY decline in consolidated net profit to Rs 29.66 crore in Q2 FY25, despite a 23.72% YoY increase in revenue to Rs 457.79 crore. The luggage maker's profit before tax also fell by 27.07% YoY to Rs 37.84 crore, primarily due to a significant rise in total expenses, including a 53.

The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) on Monday said the return of Donald Trump as the next US President will bolster India's textile and apparel trade with its largest international market.

Mankind Pharma is spinning off its consumer brands business into a wholly-owned subsidiary, aiming to increase its revenue contribution. Similar moves by Sanofi, Cipla, and Zydus Lifesciences have yielded benefits. Mankind Pharma seeks to unlock investor value through focused marketing and potential stock market listings.

The beauty giant, which manufactures makeup, skincare, perfumes, and hair care products, has been in India for close to 20 years now. It had first launched MAC in the country, followed by Clinique, Estee Lauder and recently The Ordinary—its premium affordable range aimed at recruiting younger consumers.

Grooming products maker Gillette India Ltd on Monday reported a 43.5 per cent rise in profit to Rs 133.01 crore for the quarter ended September 2024, led by a broad-based growth. The company, which follows the July-June financial year, had reported a profit of Rs 92.69 crore in the corresponding quarter of the preceding year, according to a BSE filing from Gillette India.

Marico Limited finalized its acquisition of Just Herbs in September 2024, securing the remaining 40% equity in Apcos Naturals Private Limited, which owns the Just Herbs brand. With this acquisition, Just Herb's expansion momentum is poised to accelerate.

Indian fragrance and flavour company Sacheerome aims to achieve 30-40 per cent annual growth in the Middle East market. The company plans to make Dubai its second home and establish an R&D center in the city. With significant growth potential in the MEA sector, Sacheerome also targets expansion in Asia-Pacific, focusing on Malaysia.

Highlighting the brand’s expansion trajectory in terms of physical retail presence, Sanjay Sharma, Country Head of Shiseido India said that since launching with 15 touchpoints last year, NARS has already doubled its reach to 30 points in India and plans to double again in the next two years.

India's toy exports saw a slight decline to USD 152.34 million in 2023-24 from USD 153.89 million the previous year. Despite quality control orders, exports did not benefit much. GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava suggested a more comprehensive strategy to develop the industry and boost exports.

Union Minister calls on domestic toy industry to back artisans and foster creativity at Toy CEO Meet. Global players like Walmart and Amazon join hands for collaborations. Government measures boost local manufacturing. Stakeholders discuss investment opportunities in India's growing toy market.

Founded by Supam Maheshwari and his colleague from a previous business, Amitava Saha, FirstCry has been the darling of investors which include SoftBank, Tata Sons Chairman Emeritus Ratan Tata, Premji Invest, Mahindra & Mahindra and TPG Growth.

The incoming Senate Republican Conference will meet Wednesday morning to elect the successor of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

Monday on Political Rewind , the relationship between Gov. Brian Kemp and Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has frayed, as both officials take opposing views on how to govern during the pandemic. A once productive and collegial relationship is now soured by open fighting. What brought us here? Listen here:

Tuesday on Political Rewind, conventional wisdom states that we are living through an unprecedented era of crisis in America today. As the country looks to recover and heal through these tough times, does our history have any answers or lessons? We discussed this topic with several top historians. Listen below:

The Trump administration has rescinded a rule that would have required international students to transfer schools or leave the country if their colleges hold classes entirely online this fall because of the coronavirus pandemic. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced the decision as a court hearing was getting underway on a challenge to the rule by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

On this Special Edition of Political Rewind, it’s a look at the biggest political stories of 2019. A new governor put his unique stamp on Georgia, an unexpected resignation put the state front and center in the race for Senate, and two Georgia members of Congress announced their departures.

Since George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, rage that had accumulated over centuries of racial violence spilled into the nation's streets. From Atlanta , Macon and Savannah to London , Amsterdam and Paris , protesters are flooding streets that, only weeks ago, stood nearly empty due to fears of COVID-19. The crowds are unprecedented in their size , diversity and condemnation of police brutality and systemic racial injustice. Despite early property damage , largely peaceful protests have gained momentum over the course of the last week.

UPDATED The new school year is rapidly approaching, but many parents and educators still don't know exactly what the semester will look like. As President Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos call for schools to open in-person, districts across the country are formulating a range of plans. Doctors have their own recommendations for what systems should do. It's a lot to keep track of, but NPR reporters are following the developments. Send us your questions, and we'll answer some on-air. A producer will be in touch before using your name or question on air. This form was closed on July 14th. Copyright 2020 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

Copyright 2020 NPR. To see more, visit SARAH MCCAMMON, HOST: International students will be permitted to stay in the U.S. for the fall semester if their school choose to hold online-only classes. Last week, Harvard and MIT sued U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement over a rule that would have barred those international students from the country unless they enrolled in at least one in-person class. This is a win for schools and for students who'd been trying to plan for the fall semester. And NPR's Elissa Nadworny joins us now. Hi, Elissa. ELISSA NADWORNY, BYLINE: Hey, Sarah. MCCAMMON: So what happened today? NADWORNY: Well, Harvard and MIT took ICE to court today over a rule that would have potentially affected more than a million international students. Basically, the rule said if schools were all online because of the pandemic, their students couldn't stay in the U.S. So that's not a new rule. But in March, when pretty much every school went virtual, ICE had allowed for

In November, the typically straitlaced Office of Government Ethics surprised observers with a series of tweets mimicking Donald Trump's bombastic style, exclamation points and all: "Brilliant! Divestiture is good for you, good for America!" The controversy was two-fold: (1) The OGE doesn't typically air its positions publicly, advising White House transition teams behind the scenes. (2) Trump hadn't promised the total divestitures of business interests implied by the tweets. New records shared with NPR on Friday show that behind the curious tweets was the head of the OGE himself, Director Walter Shaub Jr. In two emails, dated Nov. 30, just several minutes apart, Shaub sent to OGE Chief of Staff Shelley Finlayson the nine tweets that took the Internet by storm that day. He then followed up with a link to a legal document referenced in one of the tweets and writes: "Get all of these tweets posted as soon as humanly possible." The emails were part of a 365-page document shared with NPR in

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